Sunderland are preparing to face Blackburn Rovers at the Stadium of Light – but who will start for the Black Cats?
Tony Mowbray’s side drew 1-1 with Hull City last time out and now face three games in a seven-day period.
Elliot Embleton is set to be sidelined for an extended period after fracturing his ankle against Hull, while Danny Batth and Alex Pritchard will also both miss the Boxing Day match with a calf issues.
Here’s our predicted Sunderland line-up to face Blackburn:
Here’s our predicted Sunderland line-up to face Blackburn:
5. LB: Niall Huggins
With Dennis Cirkin set to be sidelined for the next few weeks with a hamstring issue, Huggins is likely to receive more opportunities at left-back. Photo: Frank Reid
Neil dropped into a deeper role at QPR after Pierre Ekwah was forced off with an injury. The 21-year-old may have more defensive responsibilities if his midfield partner isn’t available. Photo: Frank Reid
Mowbray said he was hopeful Ekwah could be available to face Blackburn, yet Bellingham may have to drop into a central midfield role if the Frenchman is unavailable. Photo: Chris Fryatt